Decision details

To award a contract to Cardo (Wales and West) Limited for the purposes of replacing the existing combustible high risk external cladding system to 3no 5 storey blocks of flats

Essential remedial fire safety works identified in the Fire Risk Assessments need to be carried out to 3no 5 storey blocks of flats (Arle Road, Orchard Way and Grevil Road). The scope of work includes:

·         Replacement of External wall insulation (EWI) to the external walls with new finishes provided.

·         Decentralized Mechanical Extract Ventilation (dMEV) provided to all apartment wet rooms.

·         Isolated loft insulation works to ensure loft insulation overlaps the new EWI insulation at the building eaves.

·         Structural repair works.

Following a call off from the South West Procurement Alliance (SWPA) Framework Agreement for Fire Safety Cladding Remediation, Cardo (Wales and West) Limited have been successful.

The procurement exercise confirmed that they meet all the required criteria for experience and technical knowledge of the property type and its construction.

An intent to award (subject to Cabinet approval) letter has been sent to Cardo (Wales and West) Limited and the price is held until 30th June 2026.

The Council considered utilising an existing contract with retrofit External Wall Insulation (EWI) contractors delivering social housing decarbonisation works across existing housing stock. However, the size and complexity of this project was compared against the existing resources, skills and proven capabilities and it requires a significantly increased proven level of specialist expertise and experience. 

It was determined that a specific contract would be lower risk and provide the better value for money for the Council.   Due to the combustible cladding being identified on successive fire risk assessments as high-risk, this is essential fire safety works that must be delivered as planned to ensure the risk to residents is removed.

Consultation has taken place with Gloucestershire fire and rescue service, structural engineers, building control, ward members, planning officers and block residents. The feedback received has been very positive from all parties especially by block residents concerned about the long-term viability of their homes.